Cohen out, Schwartz in as Cuomo’s secretary

As predicted by Jim Odato on Monday, Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Secretary Steve Cohen will be replaced by Larry Schwartz, who began serving as senior advisor upon Cuomo’s inauguration. Schwartz served as Secretary to former Gov. David Paterson, and handled crisis management posts as chairman of the now-defunct NYCOTB and Troy’s New York State Theatre Institute (which has been absorbed by Russell Sage College since its demise as a state entity).

Here’s the release from the governor’s press office:

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that Steven M. Cohen, who has served as Secretary to the Governor since January 1, 2011, will be leaving the administration. Governor Cuomo announced that Larry Schwartz, who has been serving as Senior Advisor to the Governor, will be appointed Secretary to the Governor.

“Since becoming Attorney General in January 2007, Steve has served with dedication and distinction,” Governor Cuomo said. “Steve has been a critical member of a team that has produced results for the people of the State. He has been both a friend and advisor, and he will be missed.”

“It is an honor to have Larry Schwartz in the position of Secretary. For the past six months, Larry has guided the new administration through both the budget and legislative process during one of the most successful legislative sessions in our history. Larry has a wealth of experience in government and brings extraordinary character, intellect and dedication to this key position. I am gratified that Larry has agreed to continue with the Administration,” Governor Cuomo added.

Since January 1, 2011, Larry Schwartz has served as Senior Advisor to Governor Cuomo. Among other responsibilities, Mr. Schwartz was the principal negotiator of the 2011-12 budget, and was critical in the drafting and negotiating several major pieces of legislation, including the ethics law, property tax cap and NYSUNY 2020. Mr. Schwartz also serves as chair of the Governor’s mandate relief commission. Prior to joining the Cuomo Administration, Mr. Schwartz served as Secretary to Governor David Paterson. In that position, Mr. Schwartz negotiated on behalf of Governor Paterson key pieces of legislation including Tier V pension reform plan, and created the Office of Taxpayer Accountability and Empire State. Mr. Schwartz also served as Westchester Deputy County Executive, where he oversaw the day to day operations of the County government, and handled labor and budget negotiations. Mr. Schwartz graduated with a B.S. In Political Science from Binghamton University. He lives in Westchester with his wife Susan and daughter Carly.

Steven M. Cohen served as Secretary to the Governor from January 1, 2011. From January 1, 2007 until his appointment as Secretary, Mr. Cohen served as Counselor and Chief of Staff to then-Attorney General Cuomo. Mr. Cohen is expected to return to the private practice of law.

Steven M. Cohen said, “For four and a half years, it has been my honor and privilege to serve at the side of a truly extraordinary public official. First as Attorney General and then as Governor, I have witnessed Governor Cuomo transform New York State into a national model for competence, integrity and progressive leadership. I am proud to have served this Governor and grateful for the opportunity he gave me to serve the people of our State. I also leave knowing that the position I vacate is being filled with an exemplary public servant and true professional, Larry Schwartz.”

Larry Schwartz said, “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as Governor Cuomo’s Secretary. The Governor has already demonstrated his ability to bring extraordinary transformation to Albany. I look forward to working with Governor Cuomo and the entire staff to build on the work we have already started.”